Indicator Tool for Adjustable Valve with Magnetic Catch Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable shunt valves for treating hydrocephalus are not optimal in resisting unintentional setting changes and are susceptible to interference from strong magnetic fields, such as those used in MRI, which can affect the accuracy and stability of valve settings.
Innovation Solution
The development of an indicator tool with a rotating wheel assembly and magnet system that allows for precise detection and adjustment of valve settings, combined with a spring mechanism to ensure the valve unit's resistance to magnetic fields and minimize unintentional changes, while allowing for non-invasive setting adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If magnets are used to adjust valve pressure settings noninvasively, then ease of operation is improved, but resistance to unintentional setting changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The valve setting mechanism transitions from a static magnetic hold to a dynamic multi-stage process. The indicator wheel assembly remains rotatable during adjustment but locks into discrete positioned settings through the catch mechanism, providing both ease of adjustment and resistance to unintentional changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The catch mechanism acts as an intermediary between the magnet-driven rotation and the final valve setting. It translates the continuous magnetic interaction into discrete, stable positions that resist unintentional changes while maintaining ease of intentional adjustment.
2Ease of operation
If magnets are used for noninvasive adjustment, then ease of operation is improved, but susceptibility to magnetic field interference worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The catch mechanism预先 engages to lock the indicator wheel assembly in place before external magnetic fields can cause unwanted rotation. This preliminary locking action prevents harmful magnetic field effects from altering the valve setting.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field that could potentially cause harmful interference is instead used beneficially to drive the indicator wheel assembly to the correct position during intentional adjustment, while the catch mechanism prevents harmful unintended movements.
3Measurement precision
If a rotating indicator wheel assembly is used to display settings, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator wheel assembly serves multiple functions: it displays the current valve setting, rotates to indicate setting changes, and engages with the catch mechanism for positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and minimizes overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator wheel assembly combines the display function, rotation mechanism, and positioning interface into a single integrated component. This merging of functions simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining measurement precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides improved precision in pressure control and resistance to strong magnetic fields, ensuring stable valve settings and minimizing the risk of unintentional changes, thus enhancing the reliability of shunt valve operations.
Implementation Method 1
At least one magnet is carried by the indicator wheel assembly to detect an actual setting of the implanted valve unit
Implementation Method 2
In some embodiments, the release mechanism includes a button depressable by the user to move the release mechanism from the first position to the second position, and a spring biases the button toward the first position
Data Source
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Figure 1A~4
Figure 5~6A
AI summary
An indicator tool 304 for use with an implanted valve unit having a plurality of performance settings. The tool comprises a housing with a readout window 344 and an indicator wheel assembly 359 capable of rotating within the housing on a spindle rotatably supported by the housing, and carrying indicia of performance settings sequentially viewable through the readout window. The tool also comprises at least one magnet 360, 362 carried by the indicator wheel assembly to detect an actual setting of the implanted valve unit and a release mechanism 332 which, when actuated by a user from a first position to a second position, enables the indicator wheel to rotate as the magnet is drawn toward the actual setting of the implanted valve unit using a a complementary system of a first gear 330 and at least one catch 327, 329.